The slow growth in earnings in the UK over the past 12 months, coupled with the cost of running a vehicle has put motorists under financial pressure,
according to the results of the RAC’s 2017 Report on Motoring.

The following stats, illustrated by the Report on Motoring Interactive Map, show road-users concerns about motoring today including the cost of car insurance and fuel.

Stats:

46% of respondents say that motoring could become a rare luxury if motoring costs increase further. This figure is higher still for drivers aged under 25,
as well as for those who live in London – 57% in both cases.

Maintenance and Repair:

Almost half of drivers (46%) have seen their maintenance and repair bills increase over the past 12 months –
a sharp rise on the 41% who reported higher servicing charges in 2016.

Car Insurance:

The cost of insuring a car is the biggest concern for 8% of motorists questioned – while the proportion of drivers who cite premiums as a
top-four concern has risen from 26% in 2016 to 28% this year.

58% of motorists have experienced a rise in insurance premiums this year, compared to 46% last year and 34% in 2015.

Regionally, at 45%, London has the highest percentage of road users who state their premiums have risen in the past year.

While 58% of drivers in Yorkshire and the Humber seem to be getting the best deal when it comes to insurance premiums.
They have the highest percentage of drivers who state that their premiums have stayed the same.

There was an average price increase of 15% for comprehensive car insurance policies between May 2016 and May 2017*

Rising Fuel Prices:

9% say rising fuel prices is their top concern, compared to 7% in 2016.

66% of motorists in the East Midlands say their fuel expenditure has increased in the last year, the highest percentage in the UK.

While the lowest percentage (54%) of drivers who say their fuel expenditure has increased are motorists in London.

Quote:

“The news from the Queen’s Speech that the Government is planning to tackle bogus whiplash claims is welcome.
Frankly anything that helps damp the soaring cost of motor insurance is good news, particularly for young drivers who are being hit
disproportionately by the hike in insurance premium tax.” Steve Gooding, Director, RAC Foundation